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Sky Bet Championship: QPR defender Richard Dunne targets new contract

QPR defender Richard Dunne hopes to earn a contract extension at Loftus Road by helping the club to the Premier League.

Last Updated: 05/12/13 2:22pm

Richard Dunne: QPR defender seeking an extension at Loftus Road

The Republic of Ireland centre-half has been formidable for Rangers since his arrival in the summer, guiding Harry Redknapp's men to 12 clean sheets this term.

However, the 34-year-old, who spent last season sidelined by a groin injury, is out of contract at the end of the campaign.

Rangers, who currently sit second in the Sky Bet Championship, level on points with Leicester City but holding an inferior goal difference, are reluctant to offer new deals until their status for next season is confirmed.

Dunne, who dropped out of the top flight for the first time in his career when he left Aston Villa, is hoping to return to the Premier League with QPR.

Speaking to Get West London, he said: "I would love to get a new contract and play in the Premier League again.

"That's the ideal scenario, but it all depends on what happens over the course of the season.

"We'll try and get the club promoted, then I'm sure there's a few of us that will be looking for new contracts when the time's right.

"It will be a lot later in the season when everyone can start thinking about next year."

Meanwhile, Dunne still harbours international ambitions and has no plans to retire, despite missing Ireland's friendlies against Latvia and Poland last month.

Dublin-born Dunne is relishing the prospect of working with the new Ireland management team of Martin O'Neill and Roy Keane.

"Playing for your country is a real honour and something that you can't pass up on," he added. "As long as I'm picked I would love to keep on playing.

"I'll have a chat with the manager and see what his plans are. I don't even know if he wants me or if they want to go with someone else.

"I had Martin for a season at Villa. We had a really good year when he was there and I really enjoyed working with him. I'm sure he's going to do a great job."